Best Dress Watch Under 500 Dollars – 6 Picks for 2023
Read on for our picks for the best dress watch under 500 dollars. Heading back into the office and need a piece that slides easily under the cuff? Have an upcoming wedding or occasion that the G-Shock just won’t cut it for? Just want to round out your collection and check every box? We’ve got you covered with this list of affordable dress watches that look the part and won’t break the bank.
Orient Bambino
The Bambino has been a top contender on these lists for years. This is especially true today as it’s offered in more dial configurations and sizes than ever before. Now available in 36mm, 38mm, and 40mm, the Bambino is everything a quintessential dress watch should be – understated, clean, and in most cases minimal. It provides a fantastic value for an entry point into dress watches. While most watches in this price segment will be quartz, the Bambino boasts an in-house automatic movement.
Bulova Classic
It’s in its name – this is a classic proportioned gentleman’s watch that will look at home on any formal occasion. 37mm and offered in three metal options – silver, yellow and rose gold to accommodate all skin types and preferences.
Timex Marlin
Here’s a dress watch for those with more classic tastes or slender wrists. The Marlin was originally released in the 1960s and was a major hit for Timex. The modern Marlin is little changed from its initial design, and retains the classic styling and proportions of the original in its 34mm case size with hand-winding movement, making it the perfect understated dress watch for everyday wear. There are a number of interesting colorways for the Marlin, as well as a 40mm model, but the classic 34mm is the version I’d recommend for a great all-around dress watch.
Seiko Essentials SWR064
Here’s a great dress watch offering from Seiko emulating the Cartier Tank look without the Cartier price point. It’s handsome, thin, and sports an elegant rectangular case that doesn’t scream for attention but will certainly elevate your wrist game. Also offered in gold-toned case with a white dial and silver-toned case with a white dial.
Seiko Dolce SACM171
The SACM171 invokes the spirit and design language of some of its big brother Grand Seikos that come at a much, much higher price point. For under $300, this watch packs a punch. This specific reference is a Japanese model so it can be a little trickier to find, however, there are usually some to be sourced on eBay or similar auction sites.
Frederique Constant 220NS4S6
Frédérique Constant was founded in 1988 as an affordable luxury Swiss watch brand dedicated to high-quality watches for a wider market. Many of their designs are classic and restrained, and have a more “luxe” feel than their price-point may suggest. The 220NS4S6 is a great example of a classic dress watch that punches above its weight.
Vintage and Used
Aside from the recommendations above, there are a ton of vintage and used pieces from well and lesser-known brands available on watch forums, Reddit, and eBay that can make a great dress watch. Oftentimes times these unique pieces with patina, charm, or a cool story offer a more rewarding ownership experience than a new watch. There is inherently more risk involved in purchasing vintage, but the hunt itself is part of the fun!
